The Connecticut Conference's five Regional Ministers provide pastoral support to the clergy and churches in their region. They help build relationships among congregations for mutual ministry and fellowship, and have particular expertise which is available to churches throughout the state.
Fairfield County Region: the Rev. Sarah J. VerascoThe focus of Sarah’s work includes local church transitions, resourcing congregational leaders, and providing pastoral support and care for Clergy leaders. She is team leader for the Crossroads Initiative, a ministry of the Connecticut Conference that seeks to engage congregations which have experienced decades of decline and are wondering what their future holds. Office Phone: 203.259.6479 |
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Valley Northwest Region: the Rev. Dr. Michael CibaMichael Ciba is Valley Northwest Regional Minister of the Connecticut Conference. He works with churches in the Naugatuck Valley and Litchfield Associations to provide resources, interpret the work of the United Church of Christ, and assist churches with planning and search and call. He offers program leadership in the areas of Congregational Vitality, Church Marketing, and Discipleship. He serves as team leader for the Threshold Initiative and as Coordinator of the Regional Ministers. Office Phone: 860.274.6727 |
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South Central Region: the Rev. Dr. Michael S. Penn-StrahMike Penn-Strah's primary work is with congregations in transition and crisis and providing leadership resources. He works with clergy of the Region in offering counsel, support and advice as well as pastoral care. He offers training for local church leaders, including moderators, deacons, and pastoral relations committees. He also leads workshops in church growth, hospitality, and conflict resolution. Office Phone: 203.389.1193 |
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Eastern Region: the Rev. Dr. Thomas CloughThe Eastern Regional Minister works with churches in transition, providing support, resources and leadership training. He assists in connecting the churches to the mission and ministry of the UCC beyond their local programs and concerns. His work with clergy of the region includes offering counsel, support and pastoral care. Office Phone: 860.941.0929 |
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North Central Region: the Rev. Ineke K. MitchellIneke K. Mitchell serves Hartford and the northern Connecticut River valley area. She offers program leadership in the areas of Church Governance, Leadership Development, and discovering the strengths of local congregations through Asset Mapping and Appreciative Inquiry. Office Phone: 860.693.4473 |
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